In 2020, a top new search phrase popped up in Google around the world: how to prevent and treat maskne.

But what is “maskne”, and why is it taking the world of skin care by storm? Today’s blog is dedicated not only to diagnosing maskne, but it’s definition, how to prevent it, and how to treat it if you are suffering from it.

The Elephant in the Room: the Definition of Maskne

A type of acne mechanica, which is defined as acne triggered by the friction of clothing, equipment, or other external sources against the skin, maskne is what it says on the tin: acne mechanica triggered specifically by masks being in close contact to the skin.

For those with sensitive and/or acneic skin, maskne can quickly become a recurring skin concern… especially if your workplace or situation requires you to wear a mask frequently or for a long period of time.

There are two primary reasons why maskne occurs:

• Consistent friction against the skin, which causes irritation and disrupts the skin’s natural moisture barrier

• Trapping in humidity, which breeds sweat and bacteria on the topmost layer of the skin; this can trigger clogged pores and excess sebum production, both of which contribute to the formation of acne breakouts 

“Janie, is there a way to prevent this?” you’re likely wondering. While these issues cannot be entirely eliminated, there are steps that can be taken to reduce your risk of developing maskne (and, if you do get, lessen its duration and severity.)

Step #1 to Prevent and Treat Maskne: Cleanse Frequently

Using your skin care professional-approved cleanser in the AM and PM is essential for ridding bacteria growth from the skin. 

Don’t have a dedicated cleanser yet? Visit Moonstone’s Online Services page to book yourself an online consultation from the comfort of your own home: encompassing an in-depth analysis of your skin goals, ideal skin care products and treatments, and skin history, you will also receive a $25 credit to use on any product orders $100 or over.

Step #2: Ensure You Are Using Acne-Safe Detergent or Soap

Washing your reusable fabric masks in the washing machine? Many ingredients and fragrances in both detergent and fabric softeners are known acne triggers: having them be in close contact with your skin may be causing or worsening your maskne.

Using soap, however, is also not without its perils; due to its drying properties, the majority of commercial soaps force your skin to over-produce sebum and, in turn, produce acne. Many soap fragrances also inflame and irritate the skin.

Not sure if this is a component of your maskne? Don’t hesitate: reach out today to have a skin care professional help diagnose your skin’s current condition. 

What Products or Treatments Will Help to Prevent and Treat Maskne?

While at-home exfoliation is important in order to slough off dead skin cells and reduce the risk of clogged pores, the key is to minimize over-exfoliation during mask use to prevent the mask from creating friction against freshly-exfoliated skin.If exfoliation-based irritation does occur, in-spa facials can work to rebalance the skin’s hydration levels, reduce inflammation, and target acne at the source.

Signature Moonstone facials that address acne include:

• The Teen Facial, which combines deep cleansing, therapeutic acne treatment, and gentle exfoliation to control or prevent acne (and an educational skin-maintenance overview for teens looking to learn more about skin care!)

• The Moonstone Signature Facial, which is 100% customized to your individual skin type. It begins with aromatherapy and an analysis of your skin before moving on to an in-depth cleansing, exfoliation, and mask

• The Moonstone Gemstone Healing Facial, which blends Eminence Organics’ most popular antioxidant products with Gua Sha (an ancient Chinese modality that uses a gemstone tool to lift and tone the skin) to reduce redness and soothe inflammation while simultaneously re-hydrating the skin

• The Moonstone Seasonal Virtual Facial, which is a tailored monthly service done 100% virtually to ensure that you are conducting spa-quality facials at home

For those looking for at-home prevention and treatment, the Image Skincare MAX Stem Cell Masque is a science-backed product that, in addition to its powerful anti-aging benefits, also tightens, hydrates, and protects the skin against external damage. 

Looking to Prevent or Treat Maskne?

Drop a comment to let me know which of the above tips you’ll be implementing to get maskne under control!